2 Chronicles 20:6 – “Lord, the God of our ancestors, are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, King Jehoshaphat begins his prayer to God, acknowledging God’s supreme authority and power. Facing the threat of an overwhelming army, Jehoshaphat doesn’t start by focusing on the problem. Instead, he directs his attention to who God is. He calls God the “God of our ancestors,” which emphasizes God’s faithfulness throughout history. By reminding the people of what God has done in the past, Jehoshaphat strengthens their faith in what God can do in the present.
Jehoshaphat also declares that God is “the God who is in heaven” and “rules over all the kingdoms of the nations.” This affirms that God is sovereign—not just over Judah but over the entire world. No power or enemy is beyond His control. Finally, Jehoshaphat acknowledges God’s might, stating that “no one can withstand you.” He is expressing absolute confidence that no matter how strong the enemies may seem, they are powerless against God’s authority.
Historical Context
Jehoshaphat was the king of Judah during a time when the nation was under threat from a coalition of surrounding nations. The Moabites, Ammonites, and others had joined forces to invade Judah. In the face of this serious threat, Jehoshaphat did not rely on military strategies alone but sought God’s help by gathering the people for prayer.
This prayer, part of which is recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:6, was made at the temple in Jerusalem, a place of great significance. Jehoshaphat’s reference to “the God of our ancestors” likely called to mind the stories of God’s faithfulness to Abraham, Moses, and David, reminding the people of how God had delivered them from danger in the past. Historically, Judah had seen God’s hand in their victories, and Jehoshaphat’s prayer builds on that legacy of trust in divine intervention.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights some key theological truths about God’s nature. First, it declares God’s sovereignty. Jehoshaphat acknowledges that God rules over all nations, not just Judah. This reinforces the idea that God is not limited by geography or human power. His rule is universal.
Secondly, the verse affirms God’s omnipotence—His ultimate power. Jehoshaphat’s statement that “no one can withstand you” reflects a core belief that God’s power is greater than any earthly force. This is a comforting truth for believers, knowing that no matter how dire the circumstances may seem, God is greater.
Lastly, this verse reminds us of the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness. By referring to God as the “God of our ancestors,” Jehoshaphat shows that the same God who worked miracles for previous generations is still active today. This connection between the past and present faithfulness of God strengthens the believer’s confidence in His ongoing care.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse is a classic example of Hebrew prayer, which often begins with adoration of God’s attributes before presenting any requests. Jehoshaphat doesn’t immediately ask for help; instead, he begins by proclaiming who God is. This pattern of praise before petition reflects a deep understanding of God’s character and shows that prayer is not just about asking for things—it’s about acknowledging God’s greatness.
The rhetorical questions Jehoshaphat asks—”Are you not the God who is in heaven?” and “Do you not rule over all the kingdoms?”—serve to reinforce truths the people already know. It’s a way of reminding them, and himself, of God’s power. The use of strong, declarative statements like “Power and might are in your hand” emphasizes God’s authority and sets the stage for the rest of the prayer, where Jehoshaphat will ask God for deliverance.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” This verse echoes Jehoshaphat’s declaration that God is the ruler of all things from His heavenly throne.
- Daniel 4:35 – “He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: ‘What have you done?’” This reflects the same idea of God’s uncontested sovereignty.
- Exodus 15:6 – “Your right hand, Lord, was majestic in power. Your right hand, Lord, shattered the enemy.” This verse from the Song of Moses parallels Jehoshaphat’s declaration that “power and might are in your hand,” recalling how God has defeated enemies in the past.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, 2 Chronicles 20:6 is a reminder of God’s power and faithfulness. No matter what difficulties we may face—whether personal struggles, societal issues, or global challenges—we can take comfort in knowing that God is in control. Just as He ruled over the nations in Jehoshaphat’s time, He continues to rule today. This verse encourages believers to start their prayers by focusing on God’s greatness rather than their problems.
It also serves as a reminder to reflect on God’s past faithfulness. When we look back at how God has worked in our lives and in the lives of those who came before us, our faith is strengthened for the challenges ahead. Jehoshaphat’s prayer teaches us to trust in God’s power to overcome any obstacle, no matter how big it may seem.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He exercises His power and authority. God’s sovereignty isn’t distant or uncaring. Instead, He rules with a heart for His people. Jehoshaphat’s prayer acknowledges that God’s power is not just theoretical; it’s personal and protective. He is not a detached ruler but one who involves Himself in the lives of His people and acts on their behalf.
By referring to God as the “God of our ancestors,” Jehoshaphat is also pointing to God’s faithfulness. God’s love is shown through His consistent care for His people across generations. He has been with them in the past, and He will continue to be with them in the future.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jehoshaphat’s prayer points us to Jesus Christ, the ultimate expression of God’s power and might. Just as Jehoshaphat acknowledged God’s sovereignty over all nations, Jesus declares in the New Testament that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s rule on earth, and through Him, we see the ultimate demonstration of God’s power over sin and death.
- Colossians 1:16-17 – “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” This passage reflects the same truth Jehoshaphat proclaimed: God (through Christ) rules over all creation.
- John 10:28 – “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” Just as Jehoshaphat declared that “no one can withstand you,” Jesus assures His followers that nothing can take them from His hand.
In Jesus, we see the fullness of God’s power, love, and sovereignty.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jehoshaphat’s prayer help you focus on God’s greatness when facing your own challenges?
- When you are in a difficult situation, do you tend to focus more on the problem or on God’s power? How can this verse help shift your perspective?
- How can reflecting on God’s past faithfulness encourage you in your present circumstances?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of starting prayer with praise and adoration?
- How does Jesus’ authority and power over all things give you confidence in the face of life’s difficulties?
This verse teaches us to trust in God’s sovereignty and might, knowing that He rules over all things and no one can stand against Him. It calls us to remember His faithfulness and turn to Him with confidence, trusting that He will act in His love and power to bring about His will.